Pray for Pain

(Pro 17:10 KJV)  A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

One of the commercials that used to run was a statement that comes from a German proverb I learned in junior high.  The English translation is expressed in the commercial as, “No pain, go gain.”  The reference is to physical training.  If you don’t make your muscles work they will not get stronger.  If you cross a certain line there is discomfort.  I remember that such a simple thing as starting to walk as exercise caused my legs to ache.  

Keep in mind that pain can be good.  We usually associate pain with something being wrong but miss the fact that that is good.  Leprosy is a condition that causes major damage because you stop feeling pain.  I think that diabetics also face severe potential problems with their feet because the nerves stop telling them that something is wrong.  

So?  When someone criticizes you, pay attention.  It could very well be that you need to hear what is being said.  It could have eternal consequences.  It could be healing, but only if it goes deep enough to get to the problem.